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Profound & Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)

Learners with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) have complex learning needs. In addition to their severe learning difficulties, they may have other significant difficulties, such as physical disabilities, sensory impairment or a severe medical condition. These learners require a high level of adult support for their learning needs and are likely to need sensory stimulation and a curriculum broken down into very small steps.

Curriculum Resources for PMLD

These curriculum resources have been developed for learners aged 3-19 with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD). They aim to provide teachers with support to enhance the learning experiences of this unique group of learners and deliver all aspects of the curriculum at a level appropriate to individual needs. All these units are aligned with the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

These thematic units have been developed to support the delivery of a vibrant and motivating curriculum for learners aged 3–19 with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD).

Assessment for PMLD

Learners who have statements of profound and multiple learning difficulties are exempted from the statutory assessment arrangements. However, assessment should still be part of the planning, teaching and learning cycle. Effective assessment identifies learners’ individual strengths and needs and provides information about learner progress.

A range of assessment frameworks have been developed to support teachers with the assessment process. All these frameworks are aligned with the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

Quest for learning is a guidance and assessment resource to support teachers and classroom assistants of learners with profound & multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), providing ideas for and pathways to learning.

The Prerequisite Skills, or more commonly known as Q Skills, are an assessment resource to support teachers and classroom assistants. The Q Skills provide a broad and inclusive framework for assessing learners, taking into account age, cognitive ability, learning difficulties and other significant complex needs.